standard for certification of research reactor … · appropriately trained and re-trained,...

LEM/TEK/54 Sem.1

17 January 2017

Atomic Energy Licensing Board Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Batu 24, Jalan Dengkil, 43800 Dengkil, Selangor

Tel: 03-8922 5888 Fax: 03-8922 3685

Laman Web: http://www.aelb.gov.my

STANDARD FOR CERTIFICATION OF

RESEARCH REACTOR

OPERATOR

http://www.aelb.gov.my/

LEM/TEK/54 Sem.1 17 January 2017

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOREWORD .................................................................................................................................................... IV

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................... 1

BACKGROUND .................................................................................................................................................. 1 OBJECTIVE ...................................................................................................................................................... 1 SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................................. 2 INTERPRETATION .............................................................................................................................................. 2

CERTIFICATION OF RESEARCH REACTOR OPERATOR ........................................................................... 4

GENERAL REQUIREMENT FOR CERTIFICATION ................................................................................................... 4 PRE-REQUISITE CONDITION FOR CERTIFICATION ................................................................................................ 4 TRAINING REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................................................ 6

Initial Training Prior to certification ....................................................................................................... 6

MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................................................. 6 Medical Examination ............................................................................................................................ 6

Documentation of Medical Examination Results .................................................................................. 7

Incapacitation because of disability or illness ....................................................................................... 7

REACTOR OPERATOR STATUS UPGRADES ........................................................................................................ 7

PROCEDURE OF APPLICATION .................................................................................................................... 8

GENERAL ......................................................................................................................................................... 8 APPLICATION FOR EXAMINATION ....................................................................................................................... 8 APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATION, RECERTIFICATION OR STATUS UPGRADE ...................................................... 8

Application for Certification ................................................................................................................... 8

Application for Re-certification .............................................................................................................. 8

Application for Status Upgrade ............................................................................................................. 9

Required Documentation for Application .............................................................................................. 9

VALIDITY OF EXAMINATION RESULTS ................................................................................................................ 9 VALIDITY OF CERTIFICATION ........................................................................................................................... 10 AMENDMENT AND REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATION .......................................................................................... 11 TRANSITIONAL PERIOD ................................................................................................................................... 11

EXAMINATION SCHEME FOR CERTIFICATION ......................................................................................... 12

GENERAL ....................................................................................................................................................... 12 WRITTEN EXAMINATION (PART A1) ................................................................................................................. 12 FACILITY WALKTHROUGH EXAMINATION (PART A2) ........................................................................................ 13 OPERATION EXAMINATION (PART A3) ............................................................................................................. 14 ORAL EXAMINATION (PART B1) ...................................................................................................................... 14 OPERATION EXAMINATION (PART B2) ............................................................................................................. 15 ORAL EXAMINATION (PART C1) ...................................................................................................................... 15 OPERATION EXAMINATION (PART C2) ............................................................................................................. 16

CONDUCT OF CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION ......................................................................................... 16

GENERAL ....................................................................................................................................................... 16 CONDUCT OF EXAMINATION ............................................................................................................................ 16


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PREPARATORY ACTIVITIES FOR EXAMINATION ................................................................................................. 17 Examination Scheduling ..................................................................................................................... 17

Assignment of Parties involved in the Conduct of Certification Examination ..................................... 17

Pre-Examination Site Visits and Facility Review ................................................................................ 20

Reference Material for Examinations………………………………………………………………………20 ADMINISTRATION OF EXAMINATION ................................................................................................................. 21

Administration of Written Examination (Part A1) ................................................................................ 21

Administration of Facility Walkthrough, Oral and Operation Examination.......................................... 23

EXAMINATION FRAUD AND MISCONDUCT ............................................................................................... 25

GENERAL ....................................................................................................................................................... 25 FRAUD AND MISCONDUCT OF EXAMINATION ..................................................................................................... 25 PROCEDURES TO HANDLE FRAUD AND MISCONDUCT OF EXAMINATION ............................................................. 26

REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................ 29

APPENDIX 1 ................................................................................................................................................... 31

APPENDIX 2 ................................................................................................................................................... 32

APPENDIX 3 ................................................................................................................................................... 37

CONTRIBUTORS FOR DRAFTING AND REVIEW ....................................................................................... 42


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iv

FOREWORD

Since 2009, the Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB) has issued the first national regulatory standards on the certification and recertification of Malaysian TRIGA Mk. II (RTP) research reactor operator (LEM/TEK/54) (hereafter called “previous standard”). These previous standards underline mandatory requirements to be fulfilled in order to be certified as reactor operator. The requirements underline is developed in 2007-2009 through a series of consultancy meeting with the national experts and contribution from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reflecting the IAEA Member States best practices and good recommendations. Through the experience gained from the uses of the previous standard, AELB issued the revision of LEM/TEK/54 (hereafter called “revised standard”) aimed to incorporate the accumulation of new requirements from updated IAEA and internationally accepted safety standards, as well as the lesson learnt from the recent Fukushima disaster in 2011. This revised standard introduced a streamlined requirements applied prior to, during and post certification process, including detail procedures for application of certification, certification examination scheme, standardized conduct of examination and procedures for dealing with misconduct of examination. In addition, new syllabus of examination is designed to ensure the future certified operator meet the expectation to continuously operate RTP in safely manner. The revised standard has undergone an extensive and rigorous process in collection of information, preparation for drafting, a well-thought peer-review and approval process prior to publications. The high quality of standard published is ensured through this iterative and transparent process. The success of this publication is represent by the results of consistent hard work and tenacity of all those involved in addressing the complexity and challenges in meeting the requirements of Atomic Energy Licensing Act 1984 and its subsidiary regulations. This standard will serve as a centralized source of information for AELB and Licensee in implementing certification of research reactor operator as well as to provide guidance to assess the level of competence of the candidate reactor operator. This is one of the many initiatives undertaken by AELB to provide an efficient and effective supervision towards safety, security and safeguards for peaceful use of atomic energy application in Malaysia. I wish to record my sincere thanks and appreciation to all of them and I am confident that their contributions will be truly appreciated by the readers for many years to come. HAMRAH BIN MOHD ALI Director General Atomic Energy Licensing Board Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation


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1

INTRODUCTION

Background

1.1. Research reactor demonstrate a wide variety of designs, a wide range of power

levels, different modes of operation and uses, differences in siting and differences in

operating organizations. These varieties of reactor characteristics require some flexibility,

in particular when dealing with the staffing with competent personnel, including reactor

operators. The licensee shall be primarily responsible for ensuring reactor operators are

appropriately trained and re-trained, qualified and certified to perform the assigned task.

1.2. IAEA Safety Requirements Safety of Research Reactors (No. NS-R-4) Para 7.3

requires the Licensee (termed operating organization) to establish the functions and

responsibilities for the key positions in the organization for reactor operation. Para 7.4 of

NS-R-4 also requires the Licensee to determine the staff positions that require a licence

or certificate and shall provide for adequate training in accordance with the requirements

of the AELB.

1.3. This Standard is developed mainly to address the process for certification of

research reactor operator, including Senior Reactor Operator. The standard presents the

detail requirements prior to, and during the certification process before any certification is

granted by AELB.

1.4. This publication supersedes previous issued LEM/TEK/54 (dated

4 December 2009).

Objective

1.5. The objective of certification program is:

a) To ensure all research reactor operator acquire, possess and maintain the

minimum required competency;


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b) To ensure all applicable Malaysian legislative requirements are met; and

c) To provide recognition of the qualification and competence of research

reactor operator.

Scope

1.6. This Standard shall apply to the certification of research reactor operator and

senior reactor operator of PUSPATI TRIGA Mk. II research reactor (RTP).

1.7. This standard does not specifically address requirements for a certification of:

a) Trainee who’s in the process of undergoing reactor operation training prior

to certification or re-certification process;

b) Training institution, including their lecturers and professional/technical staff

for the purpose of initial reactor operator training program;

c) Associates personnel with maintenance and/or test activity of the reactor,

which subsequently required the reactor to be operated; and

d) Any other personnel whom is not defined as Reactor Operator or Senior

Reactor Operator

Interpretation

1.8. For the purposes of this Standard, unless the context requires otherwise:

“AELB” means Atomic Energy Licensing Board, as defined under the Atomic

Energy Licensing Act 1984;

“Active Duty” means a minimum required period of reactor control and reactivity

manipulation, which represents at least 4 hours per calendar quarter;


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“Certification program” means a process for certification or recertification of a

Reactor Operator or Senior Reactor Operator’s status upgrade defined under

Section 2 of this Standard;

“Candidate” means an individual whose being nominated by the Licensee in the

application for certification, re-certification or status upgrade examination;

“Committee” means Jawatankuasa Kecil Keselamatan Nuklear, where its

membership is appointed by AELB;

“Licensee” means a holder of a licence issued under the Atomic Energy Licensing

Act 1984;

“Research Reactor Operator” means Reactor Operator and Senior Reactor

Operator;

“Reactor Operator” means a certified personnel to manipulate a control of research

reactor, by means of either manually-operated, automatically- operated, or

combination of both;

“Senior Reactor Operator” means any certified Reactor Operator who’s

responsible to direct the licensed activity to be performed; and

“Reactor Manager” means designated person authorized to oversee the safe

operation and utilization of the research reactor.


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CERTIFICATION OF RESEARCH REACTOR OPERATOR

General Requirement for Certification

2.1. The research reactor shall only be operated by a certified Research Reactor

Operator.

2.2. The initial certification process is arranged in systematic manner to allow the whole

process to be completed within twelve (12) consecutive months. Figure 2-1 illustrates the

generic process of the certification of Research Reactor Operator.

Pre-requisite Condition for Certification

2.3. Prior to the admission of certification process, the candidate shall fulfil the following

conditions:

a) Citizenship: the candidate shall be a citizen of Malaysia;

b) Age requirements:

i. For Reactor Operator: shall not less than 20 years old and not

exceeding 45 years old during the application for certification; and

ii. For Senior Reactor Operator: shall not less than 30 years old and not

exceeding 55 years old during the application for certification

c) Minimum Diploma in Engineering/Science discipline from a recognized

institution;

d) Minimum of six (6) continuous months performing duties as Reactor

Operator Trainee under supervision of Reactor Manager at the research

reactor;

e) Complete the Reactor Operator Training Program, as defined under

Appendix 1 of this Standard; and

f) Fulfils the medical requirements to be deemed fit for duty.


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START

Submit a Request for Examination to AELB

Received Request for Examination from Licensee (Para 3.2)

Verify completeness of information provided

YES

NORequest further information from Licensee

Verify compliance to pre-requisite for certification (Para 2.3)

YES

NOCandidate is rejected from applying certification

Finalization of Candidate List to Written Examination

Preparation for Written Examination (including examination question set)

[See Section 5]

Candidate admission to Written Examination

Candidate pass Written Examination?Written

Exam Score

Eligible to retake examination

Complete training again before re-take

examination

YES (Score more than 70%)

NO

Elig

ibili

ty t

o R

e-ta

ke W

ritt

en

Exam

inat

ion

?

Less than 49%

Between 50% to 69%

Finalization of Candidate List to Facility Walkthrough Examination

Preparation for Facility Walkthrough Examination (including examination question set)

[See Section 5]

Candidate admission to Facility Walkthrough Examination

Candidate pass Facility Walkthrough Examination?

FW Exam Score



examination


NO

Elig

ibili

ty t

o R

e-ta

ke

Exam

inat

ion

?

Less than 64%

Between 65% to 79%

Finalization of Candidate List to Operation Examination

Preparation for Operation Examination (including examination question set)

[See Section 5]

Candidate admission to Operation Examination

Candidate pass Operation Examination?

FO Exam Score



examination


NO

Elig

ibili

ty t

o R

e-ta

ke

Exam

inat

ion

?

Less than 69%

Between 70% to 84%

Finalization of Candidate List to Committee for endorsement

Submission of required documentation for application of certification (Para 3.8)

Submission for AELB approval of certified operator

Notification of the lists of certified operator to Licensee(including Certificate Issuance)

FINISH

Certification process of research reactor operator completed.

Wri

tten

Exa

min

atio

n (

Par

t A

1)

Faci

lity

Wal

kth

rou

gh E

xam

inat

ion

(P

art

A2

)O

per

atio

n E

xam

inat

ion

(P

art

A3

)

Ora

l Exa

min

atio

n (

Par

t B

1)

Op

erat

ion

Exa

min

atio

n

(Par

t B

2)

Ora

l Exa

min

atio

n (

Par

t C

1)

Op

erat

ion

Exa

min

atio

n

(Par

t C

2)

Figure 2-1: Generic Process for Certification of Research Reactor Operator


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Training Requirements

Initial Training Prior to certification

2.4. The candidate shall complete the reactor operator training with syllabus as define

under Appendix 1 of this Standard. No restriction is imposed on the training duration prior

to formal certification process.

2.5. As part of the initial training, candidate may participate in on-the-job training to

demonstrate familiarity and competence for the position to which they will be assigned.

An on-the-job training plan should be prepared and the achievement of learning

objectives and tasks performed during the training should be recorded as part of the

training record for the candidate. The initial training programme shall reflect actual

conditions of the structural, system and component of the designated facility.

Medical Requirements

Medical Examination

2.6. The candidate shall be examined by Approved Registered Medical Practitioner to

ensure that medical condition and general health will not detrimentally affect the

performance of the assigned duties or cause operational errors which may endanger

reactor operational safety.

2.7. In concluding the candidate by medical examination as “Fit for Duty” for reactor

operation, the candidate shall fulfil the minimum medical requirements and criteria

indicated in ANSI/ANS-15.4 (2016) or any equivalent standards available.

2.8. The candidate shall undergo regular medical examination for once in three years.

This requirement shall also apply to any new application for certification, recertification or

status upgrade.


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Documentation of Medical Examination Results

2.9. The licensee shall document and maintain the results of medical examination and

any medical records for each reactor operator and/or senior reactor operator. Such

documentation shall be retained during the tenure of an individual while he/she performs

the function of a Research Reactor Operator.

Incapacitation because of disability or illness

2.10. If, during the validity of the certification, any Research Reactor Operator develops

a temporary or permanent physical or mental condition that causes the Research Reactor

Operator fail to meet Para 2.6, the Licensee shall notify AELB in writing within 30 days of

learning of the diagnosis.

2.11. Special medical examination shall be administered to conclude whether the

Research Reactor Operator can be cleared for resumption of reactor operation.

Reactor Operator Status Upgrades

2.12. The status of Reactor Operator may be upgradable to Senior Reactor Operator.

2.13. A candidate for Senior Reactor Operator shall:

a) Be a certified Reactor Operator with valid certification, during his/her

application in becoming Senior Reactor Operator;

b) Possess a minimum of 7 years’ experience as certified Reactor Operator;

c) Be able to direct the reactor operation during the designated shifts; and

d) Be officially designated by Licensee to be in position of Senior Reactor

Operator.


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PROCEDURE OF APPLICATION

General

3.1 This sections deals with detail procedure of application for certification of Research

Reactor Operator, including the requirements for: waiver from examination; validity and

extensions; and amendment and revocation of certification.

Application for Examination

3.2 The application for certification examination shall initiate with a written Letter of

Examination Request to AELB, and the following information shall also be provided:

a) List of candidate for examination;

b) Reference Material for examination (see Section 5);

c) Evidence of completion of Reactor Operator Training Program; and

d) Evidence that the candidate has successfully performed reactor operation

as a trainee, under direct supervision of Reactor Manager.

Application for Certification, Recertification or Status Upgrade

Application for Certification

3.3 The application for certification (Part A) shall be made to AELB upon completion

of all examination schemes.

Application for Re-certification

3.4 The application for recertification (Part B) shall be made at least 6 months before

the expiration date of existing certification.


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3.5 In any cases where the application for re-certification of Reactor Operator is

initiated after the expiry date of existing certification, AELB may granted additional six (6)

months period to allow the re-certification process to be complete, given that the

candidate demonstrate the ability to continuously maintain his/her competency as a

Reactor Operator.

3.6 Without prejudice to Para 3.5; if the re-certification process could not be completed

within six (6) months extended period from the existing valid certification, the existing

certification is deemed revoked, and he/she shall undergo formal certification process as

required under Para 3.3.

Application for Status Upgrade

3.7 The application for Reactor Operator status upgrade to Senior Reactor Operator

(Part C) may be made if the condition specified in para 2.3(b)(ii) and 2.13 is met.

Required Documentation for Application

3.8 The following information shall be provided during the application, as appropriate:

a) List of candidate to be certified, re-certified or status upgraded;

b) Valid examination results;

c) Medical examination results; and

d) Licensee’s designation letter for Senior Reactor Operator position (for

status upgrade only).

Validity of Examination Results

3.9 The examination results shall be valid from the date of results issuance, and shall

remain valid for 12 months.


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3.10 For the case of initial certification, where any candidate cannot successfully

complete the facility walkthrough and operation examination within 12 months after

passing the written examination, the validity of written examination result may be

extended by AELB for a period not exceeding 6 months only for the following conditions:

a) The reactor is in shutdown mode, where the decision for resumption of

reactor operation is foreseen; and

b) The delay in certification due to candidate’s sickness or injury.

3.11 When applying for an extension, the Licensee shall submit application for

extension containing information pertaining to:

a) Justification for extension; and

b) Measures taken to ensure the candidate has maintained the knowledge

and skills required to work competently as Reactor Operator.

3.12 Without prejudice to Para 3.10; if the certification process could not be completed

within six (6) months extended period, the existing examination results is deemed invalid,

and he/she shall undergo certification examination process again as required under Para

4.1.

Validity of Certification

3.13 The certification granted under this Standard shall remain valid for a period of

3 years, unless:

a) Otherwise prescribed by AELB or the Committee’s recommendation for any

period less than 3 years;

b) The Research Reactor Operator demonstrate temporary or permanent

illness or incapacitation as prescribed in Para 2.10;

c) The Research Reactor Operator’s employment is terminated from RTP; or

d) The Licensee determines that the current certified Research Reactor

Operator no longer needs to maintain his/her certification.


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3.14 The certification granted under these standards shall bound with the following

conditions:

a) The condition under the certification shall not be re-assigned, or otherwise

transferred;

b) The certification is limited to the designated facility to be operated;

c) The Research Reactor Operator is subject to, and shall observe all

applicable rules and regulations;

d) The Research Reactor Operator shall be in an active duty;

e) The Research Reactor Operator shall not be a convicted felon; and

f) The Research Reactor Operator shall not be under influence of, abuses or

dependency of any substances or drugs.

Amendment and Revocation of Certification

3.15 The certification and conditions of certification are subject to amendment and

revision in accordance with the Act or any amendment thereto.

3.16 The certification granted may be revoked and suspended by AELB in accordance

with the Act or any amendment thereto.

Transitional Period

3.17 The Standard for Certification and Recertification of Research Reactor Operator

(LEM/TEK/54) 2007 is revoked; provided that any existing certification granted under that

Standards prior to 1 February 2017 shall be remain valid until such certificate expires.


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EXAMINATION SCHEME FOR CERTIFICATION

General

4.1 The examination scheme for Reactor Operator certification (Part A) shall consists

of:

a) Written Examination (Part A1);

b) Facility Walkthrough Examination (Part A2); and

c) Operation Examination (Part A3)

4.2 The examination scheme for Reactor Operator re-certification (Part B) shall

consists of:

a) Oral Examination (Part B1); and

b) Operation Examination (Part B2)

4.3 The examination scheme for Senior Reactor Operator’s status upgrade (Part C)

shall consists of:

a) Oral Examination (Part C1); and

b) Operation Examination (Part C2)

Written Examination (Part A1)

4.4 The written examination shall constitute of three papers which consist of the

following subjects:

a) Paper A1-1: Nuclear and Reactor Physics, System Thermal-hydraulics,

and Research Reactor Safety;

b) Paper A1-2: Reactor Facility Specific Design, Reactor Facility Operation,

and Reactor Administrative Requirement;

c) Paper A1-3: Statutory Basis, Radiation Protection and Occupational Safety.


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4.5 Each written examination paper is arranged to be completed within 120 minutes,

comprises of combination of multiple-choice type question and subjective question.

4.6 The syllabus of the written examination is stated in Appendix 1.

4.7 The minimum passing grades of each Written Examination papers shall be

70% marks to be eligible to sit for Facility Walkthrough Examination.

4.8 The candidate is allowed to retake once of the written examination paper which

does not attain passing marks required under Para 4.7 if the range score obtained is from

50% to 69%. The candidate shall retake those papers within 6 months from the date of

examination result issuance.

4.9 If the range score obtained is equal or less than 49%, the candidate is allowed to

re-take the paper which does not attain passing marks required under Para 4.7 after

undergoing the training for respective subjects again.

Facility Walkthrough Examination (Part A2)

4.10 The syllabus of the Facility Walkthrough examination is stated in Appendix 2.

4.11 The minimum passing grades of Facility Walkthrough Examination shall be

80% marks to be eligible to sit for Operation Examination.

4.12 The candidate is allowed to retake the Facility Walkthrough examination if the

range score obtained is from 65% to 79%.


re-take the Facility Walkthrough examination again after undergoing the training for facility

walkthrough.


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Operation Examination (Part A3)

4.14 The syllabus of the Operation Examination is stated in Appendix 3.

4.15 The minimum passing grades of Operation Examination shall be 85% marks.

4.16 The candidate is deemed to immediately fail the Operation Examination in any of

the following conditions occurs:

a) The candidate fails to follow the required reactor operation sequences as

specified in the reactor operation procedures;

b) SCRAM of reactor (excluding system malfunction);

c) The candidate fails to response to alarm;

d) The reactor operation exceeding any limits specified in Operational Limits

and Conditions; or

e) The candidate demonstrates an un-ethical behaviour during the conduct of

reactor operation.

4.17 The candidate is allowed to retake the Operation Examination if the range score

obtained is from 70% to 84%.

4.18 If the range score obtained is equal or less than 69% or any conditions stated in

Para 4.16 occurs, the candidate is allowed to re-take the Operation examination again

after undergoing the training for reactor operation.

Oral Examination (Part B1)

4.19 The syllabus of the Oral Examination is stated in Appendix 2.

4.20 The minimum passing grades of Oral Examination shall be 80% marks to be

eligible to sit for Operation Examination.


15


re-take the Oral Examination again after undergoing the remedial training on those areas

or topics where weakness or deficiencies are indicated before the Candidate is allowed

to retake the examination.

Operation Examination (Part B2)





after undergoing the remedial training on those areas or topics where weakness or

deficiencies are indicated before the Candidate is allowed to retake the examination.

Oral Examination (Part C1)

4.25 The syllabus of the Oral Examination is stated in Appendix 2.

4.26 The minimum passing grades of Oral Examination shall be 85% marks to be

eligible to sit for Operation Examination.


re-take the Oral examination again after undergoing the remedial training on those areas

or topics where weakness or deficiencies are indicated before the Candidate is allowed

to retake the examination.


16

Operation Examination (Part C2)





after undergoing the remedial training on those areas or topics where weakness or

deficiencies are indicated before the Candidate is allowed to retake the examination.

CONDUCT OF CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION

General

5.1 This section describes general procedures in conduct of certification examination

specified under Section 4 of this Standard. This includes preparation, scheduling and

coordinating examinations, assigning examiners and proctors, and obtaining reference

material from facility.

Conduct of Examination

5.2 The examination scheme set forth in this standards shall be conducted by AELB.

5.3 Notwithstanding to Para 5.2, the operation and walkthrough examination scheme

set forth in this standards shall be implemented at the designated Licensee’s reactor

facility for which the candidate would expected to be an operator.


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Preparatory Activities for Examination

Examination Scheduling

5.4 Scheduling of the examination, including preparation, administration and grading

of examinations are prepared by AELB. In completing this process, negotiation with

representative of the Licensee may be made on issues related to examinations dates.

Assignment of Parties involved in the Conduct of Certification Examination

5.5 For the purpose of this section, Table 5-1 lists the parties involved in the conduct

of the certification examination with their main responsibility.

Table 5-1: Parties involved in the conduct of certification examination

Parties involved Appointment Main Responsibility

Examiner

(Pegawai Pemeriksa)

Committee a) Examine and evaluate examination (Part

A1) based on the answer scheme and

grading methodology as determined by the

Committee

Assessor

(Pegawai Penilai)

Committee a) Assess Candidate performance in

examination (Part A2, A3, Part B, Part C)

based on the answer scheme and grading

methodology as determined by the

Committee

Proctor

(Pegawas

Peperiksaan)

AELB a) Administer the conduct of certification

examination;

b) To provide necessary support to

Examiner/Assessor/Examination

Secretariat, where necessary


18

Parties involved Appointment Main Responsibility

c) To provide reports of any misconduct of

examination to the Committee (See

Section 6)

Examination

Secretariat

(Urusetia

Peperiksaan)

AELB a) Coordination of the certification

examination request from Licensee

(including scheduling, appointment of

suitable assessor, examiner);

b) To provide necessary support to

Committee Secretariat, where necessary

c) To announce the examination results

approved by the Committee

Drafter

(Penyedia Soalan

Peperiksaan)

N/A a) Develop a set of questions and answer

scheme as determined by the Committee

b) Develop a complete list of marking scheme

for each answers

Committee’s

Secretariat

(Urusetia JKKN)

N/A a) To consolidate the draft of examination

question, answers, grading scheme to the

Committee for approval;

b) To arrange for Committee activities for the

purposes of research reactor operator

certification

c) To provide necessary support to

Examination Secretariat, where necessary

5.6 The committee reserve the right to assign another examiner if the previous

assigned examiner appears to present a conflict of interest that may jeopardize the

performance, evaluation and integrity of the examination.

5.7 An examiner or assessor who failed a candidate in examination shall not be

assigned to administer that Candidate’s retake examination.


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5.8 An examiner or assessor, AELB, or the Committee, shall not be liable or be hold

responsibility for any damages, incidents or accident to the reactor and its associated

structure, system and component caused by the Candidate prior to, during or post

examination session, or after the Candidate has been certified or re-certified. It is

presumed that the responsibility for safety of the reactor rests with the Licensee.

5.9 The examination proctors shall administer the conduct of examination in ensuring

the integrity of examination. Specifically, they have the following responsibilities during

the conduct of examination session:

a) To verify the adequacy of examination area and support facility prior to

examination session to ensure no aids/reference material available to

candidate to allow him/her for possible cheating;

b) Receive of sealed packages containing examination questions, and ensure

the seal is maintain intact;

c) To direct the candidate to sit at a designated seat;

d) To verify the candidate’s identity and to ensure the attendance of candidate

is appropriately recorded;

e) To ensure the candidate to bring with him/her pencils, pens, ID (identity

card/passport) and non-programmable calculator ONLY into the

examination room;

f) To distribute the examination questions 10 minutes before the examination

starts;

g) To hinder any candidate:

i. whose late than 30 minutes after the examination commence to

undertake the intended examinations;

ii. to leave examination area 30 minutes before the examination

session complete;

h) To observe the candidate for any possibility of cheating during examination

session, and to record such act of possible cheating determined to be

reported to the Committee;

i) To instruct the candidate, when the examination session is over:


20

i. To immediately stop writing on the examination answer sheet;

ii. To consolidate the examination sheet;

iii. To bring back his/her ID and personnel belonging when leaving the

examination area;

iv. To leave the consolidated answer sheet; examination questions; and

any used and un-used paper on the desk;

v. To leave the examination room in orderly manner.

j) To collect consolidated answer sheet, un-used and used paper on the

candidate desk and prepared them for submission for marking process.

Pre-Examination Site Visits and Facility Review

5.10 In some cases, it may advantageous to arrange for site visits and facility review

prior to the facility walkthrough/oral/operation examinations. This site visits allow the

assigned assessor to familiarize themselves with the facility and provide an opportunity

to review and validate the status of reference material provided to AELB for the purpose

of examination.

Reference Material for Examinations

5.11 Upon the application of Examination Request is made by the Licensee, the

following information shall also be provided:

a) Training material, existing learning objectives, lecture handouts used for

training;

b) Complete procedure index (including temporary procedures list);

c) All administrative procedures, notices, and directives (including superseded

procedures)

d) All facility procedures, including normal operating procedures, and

procedures for experiments (including superseded procedures);

e) All emergency plan, procedures and instructions, including any abnormal or

special procedures (including superseded procedures);


21

f) All applicable instructions from the reactor managements that are safety

related and may supersede regular procedures;

g) Fuel handling and core loading procedures;

h) Annunciator/alarm procedures;

i) System operating procedures, including system required for experiments;

j) Facility’s piping and instrumentation diagram, electrical diagram, coolant

flow diagrams;

k) Facility technical handbook, including any curve or information as used by

operator during normal operation; and

l) Any precautions, limitation, and complete list of set points for the facility.

Administration of Examination

Administration of Written Examination (Part A1)

5.12 The following administrative principles for conduct of written examination

(Part A1) is adopted:

a) A single room must be provided for administration of the written

examination. The location of this room, restroom and other supporting

facilities should be such as to prevent contact with other candidate during

the written examination;

b) Minimum spacing of 1.8m (6 ft.) between candidates is required to ensure

examination integrity;

c) Candidate may bring pens, pencils, and/or non-programmable calculators

into the examination room. Only black ink or dark pencils should be used

for writing answers to questions; and

d) No wall charts, models, and/or other training materials can be present in the

examination room. No other equipment or reference material will be allowed

unless provided by the examiner.


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5.13 The following written examination instruction shall be read VERBATIM by proctors

prior to the starts of examination session:

a) Cheating on the examination means an automatic fail of examination and

could result in more severe penalties.

b) Restroom trips are to be limited and only one applicant at a time may leave.

You must avoid all contact with anyone outside the examination room to

avoid the appearance or possibility of cheating.

c) Use black ink or dark pencil only to facilitate legible reproductions.

d) Write your name in the blank provided in the upper right-hand corner of the

examination cover sheet and each answer sheet.

e) Write your answers on the answer sheet provided. USE ONLY THE PAPER

PROVIDED AND DO NOT WRITE ON THE BACK SIDE OF THE PAGE.

f) Before you turn in your examination, consecutively number each answer

sheet.

g) The point value for each question is indicated in [brackets] after the

question.

h) If the intent of a question is unclear, ask questions to the examiner only.

i) When turning in your examination, assemble completely examination

questions, examination aids and answer sheets. In addition, turn in all scrap

paper.

j) Ensure all information you wish to have evaluated as part of your answer is

on your answer sheet. Scrap paper will be disposed of immediately

following the examination.

k) To pass the written examination, you must achieve a grade of 70 percent or

greater in each paper.

l) There is a time limit of two (2) hours for completion of the examination.

m) When you have completed and turned in your examination, leave the

examination area. If you are observed in this area while the examination is

still in progress, your application for certification may be denied or revoked.


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Administration of Facility Walkthrough, Oral and Operation Examination

5.14 This section addresses the administration of Facility Walkthrough, Oral and

Operation Examination (Part A2, A3, Part B and Part C).

5.15 The number of persons present during an examination should be limited to ensure

the integrity of the examination and to minimize distractions to the candidates. Except for

the certified operators, no other member of the RTP’s training or operations staff and any

Candidate shall be allowed to witness Facility Walkthrough, Oral or Operation

Examination.

5.16 Previous Facility Walkthrough, Oral and Operation examination shall not to be

used as a reference for future candidates. The use of video recording during the

administration of examinations is not authorized.

5.17 During the examination session, the assessors must not restrict the candidate

operator's activities to such an extent that the candidates being evaluated are required to

assume actual responsibilities of the certified operator. The candidate will be expected to

assume the full responsibility of the role he/she is playing in the examination.

5.18 Other assessors may be present either to witness the examination as part of their

training, or to audit the performance of the assessors administering the operating test.

5.19 The following principles for conduct of examination is adopted:

a) An assessor shall brief the candidates prior to beginning the examination.

It is recommended that this briefing be presented to all candidates who are

scheduled to be examined during the same session at the same time.

b) In any cases where the candidate withdraws from the examination, prior to

or after commencement of the examination session, the Licensee shall

notify the AELB in written justifying the reason of such withdrawal. In any


24

cases, the candidate shall be considered as failing in examination and the

candidate is required to apply for rescheduling of examination.

c) While administering the examination, the assessor should encourage the

candidate to draw diagrams, flow paths, or other visual representations.

This allows the candidate to better express themselves when providing an

answer or explanation to the assessor.

d) Prior to commencement of operation examination, the assessor shall

determine the scenario to be performed by the candidate. Such scenario

should be developed in combination of normal operation of the facility,

instrumentation error, component failure and major transients.

e) The assessor should limit discussions with the applicants during the

scenario performance to both maintain realism and to avoid distracting the

candidate. The questions asked by assessor during the scenario

performance should be limited to those that are necessary for assessing the

candidate's understanding of facility conditions and required operator

actions during the scenario.

f) If the candidate performs in a way other than expected, the assessor should

note the candidate's actions (or lack of actions). These notes must provide

sufficient information to allow the assessor to confidently judge Candidate

performance on the knowledge and prescribed competencies, and must

provide basis of his/her action for a certification decision.


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EXAMINATION FRAUD AND MISCONDUCT

General

6.1 This section describes a procedure to deal with fraud and misconduct of any

examination prescribed under this Standard.

6.2 For the purposes of this section –

“Reference Material” means any book, numerical tables, mathematical formula,

paper, document, picture, mobile phone or any other electronic device;

“Plagiarism” means an act or instance of using or closely imitating the language,

ideas and thought of another author without authorization, and the representation

of that work is not crediting by the original author;

“Falsification” means an act to alter fraudulently, or to make false or incorrect

information, with or without intent to deceive;

Fraud and misconduct of examination

6.3 During an examination, any Candidate shall not take, or attempt to take or use

any Reference Material except those authorized by the examiner, into or out of any

examination room; or receive or attempt to receive or in any other manner whatsoever

obtain or attempt to obtain any Reference Material in any manner from any other person

while in the examination room except for such Reference Material received from the

Examiners or recommended by Committee.

6.4 Any candidate shall not obtain or attempt to obtain the services of any other

person to appear for the examination on his behalf or in any other manner whatsoever.


26

6.5 During an examination session, a Candidate shall not impersonate or attempt to

impersonate another Candidate and appear for such examination on behalf of any

Candidate other than himself.

6.6 A Candidate shall not via whatever means, cheat or attempt to cheat or conduct

himself in a manner which can be construed as “cheating” or attempt to cheat in an

examination, while the examination is in progress.

6.7 An examination proctors, in ensuring the examination integrity, shall not put

him/herself, or any attempt to compel him/herself aiding, or attempt to aid any Candidate,

via whatever means, to cheat or attempt to cheat or in any manner which can be

construed as “cheating” in an examination, while the examination is in progress.

6.8 A Candidate shall not, during an examination, communicate with any other

Candidate during an examination session by any means whatsoever.

6.9 Any offence committed under Para 6.3 to 6.8 shall be construed as a strict liability

offence and shall be dealt with in accordance with Para 6.10-6.16.

Procedures to Handle Fraud and misconduct of examination

6.10 Should there is any evidence, or suspicion by the proctors that any fraud,

cheating, or falsification is occur during the examination session, he/she shall prepare a

written report to the Committee within five (5) days, compiling such evidence to the claim

of any fraud, cheating, or falsification.

6.11 The committee, based on the written report submitted by the proctor, shall request

upon the candidate to justify his/her action of any fraud, cheating, or falsification he/she

may or may not conducted.


27

6.12 The committee shall conduct a thorough investigation of such claims of any fraud,

cheating, or falsification. The committee also reserve the rights to establish independent

subcommittee to investigate any fraud, cheating, or falsification, and to report to the

Committee within thirty (30) days of its findings.

6.13 The committee, based on findings of investigation, shall make its decision,

whether or not any fraud, cheating, or falsification is occurring, based on the following

consideration:

a) Are any act of fraud, cheating, or falsification being occur?

b) Are the candidate(s) having an intention to perform such act?

c) What are the severities of such claimed act of fraud, cheating, or

falsification?

6.14 The candidate, after consideration by Committee, upon conviction of his/her

misconduct of examination, he/she shall be presumed to fail all the examination for

certification. He/she shall not be allowed to apply for certification for one year, starting

from the latest examination date which he/she attended.

6.15 If the examiners/proctors/assessors or any AELB staffs are involved in the

misconduct of the examination, the AELB management reserve the right to determine

the punishments based on applicable Public Services circular/directives/policies.

6.16 If any third party persons are involved in the misconduct of the examination, the

AELB management reserve the right to report the case to the police for further criminal

investigations.


28



29

REFERENCES

1) International Atomic Energy Agency. Fundamental Safety Principles, Safety

Fundamental No. SF-1 (2006)

2) International Atomic Energy Agency. Safety of Research Reactors, Safety

Requirements No. NS-R-4 (2005)

3) International Atomic Energy Agency. The Operating Organization and the

Recruitment, Training and Qualification of Personnel for Research Reactors,

Safety Guide No. NS-G-4.5 (2008)

4) United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Operator Licenses (10 CFR 55)

5) United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Non-Power Reactor Operator

Licensing Examiner Standards (NUREG-1478 Rev.01). March 1995.

6) American Nuclear Society. Selection and Training of Personnel for Research

Reactor. Standard No. ANSI/ANS-15.4 (2016).

7) Atomic Energy Licensing Board. Standard for Certification and Recertification of

Research Reactor Operator, LEM/TEK/54 (version 2009)

8) Atomic Energy Licensing Board. Standard Persijilan Pegawai Perlindungan

Sinaran. LEM/TEK/44 (Bahagian A-G). 2015


30



31

APPENDIX 1

INITIAL TRAINING AND COMPREHENSIVE WRITTEN EXAMINATION

SYLLABUS

A1.1 The initial training for Reactor Operator shall comprise of the minimum following

scopes:

1. Fundamental of Nuclear and Reactor Physics

2. System Thermal-Hydraulics

3. Reactor Engineering and Safety

4. Facility Design: Mechanical and Instrumentation & Control

5. Facility Operating Procedures

6. Administrative Requirements

7. Statutory Bases

8. Radiation Protection

9. Occupational Safety


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APPENDIX 2

FACILITY WALKTHROUGH AND ORAL EXAMINATION SYLLABUS

General

A2.1 The objectives of facility walkthrough and oral examination to determine if the

candidate possesses and maintain adequate competencies and knowledge in the area of

facility system design and operation.

A2.2 The examination is conducted in the combination of facility walk-down and oral

presentation. No time limit is imposed on the duration of examination for each candidate.

Considering the performance of the candidate, and to ensure optimization of examination,

it is recommended that the examiner spend approximately 30 minutes per candidate.

Required Examination Competencies

A2.3 The following examination competencies shall be evaluated for each candidate:

a) System Equipment and Components: This area deals with presentation

of system hardware and components design. It is also includes the basic

flow path (explanation, free-hand drawing or tracing piping and instruments

drawing), sources, power supplies, system backups, system operation to

perform its intended functions and its relationship with interconnecting

systems.

b) System Instrumentation/Interlocks/Protection: This area deals with

presentation of instrumentation associated with the system, including its

purposes, expected reading during normal, abnormal, and emergency

situation, component protection and interlock function. Also, any automatic

protection afforded by the system, set-points, coincidence and reasons for

the protection is appropriately evaluated in this subject area.

c) Procedural Knowledge/Uses: This area deals with presentation of normal,

abnormal, and emergency procedures associated with the system,


33

including procedural pre-requisites, precautions and limitation. Any special

tests, regular experimental procedures, pre-operational and post

operational checklists may be included in this area. The examiner shall

sample a candidate’s knowledge in normal, abnormal, emergency

procedures to ensure the minimum competency is achieved.

d) Administrative and Statutory Requirements: This area incorporates the

competency of a candidate in the area of Reactor Operational Limits and

Conditions, including Safety Limits (SL), Safety System Setting (SSS),

Limiting Condition for Safe Operation (LSO), Surveillance Requirements

(SR) and Administrative Requirements (AR). Statutory requirements, such

as approved license conditions, and other administrative requirement may

be evaluated in this area.

A2.4 For the purpose of this examination, the following requirements shall apply:

a) For Reactor Operator certification: ALL Thematic Area (TA) must be

evaluated, where at least ONE Specific Area (SA) is selected;

b) For Reactor Operator recertification: at least TWO Thematic Area (TA) is

evaluated, where at least THREE Specific Area (SA) is selected;

c) For Senior Reactor Operator Status Upgrade: Specialized topic on oral

examination will be developed by the Committee on case-by-case basis.

A2.5 The subject topic of examination (including subject topic details) is tabulated in

Table A2-1.


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Table A2-1: Thematic Area for Walkthrough/Oral Examination

Thematic Area (TA) Specific Area (SA)

MF Major Reactor

System

MF1 Reactor Core (including Core construction)

MF2 Reactor Control Rod

MF3 Control Rod Drive

MF4 Primary Cooling System

MF5 Secondary Cooling System

MF6 Nuclear Fuel Design

MF7 Reactor Pool

AU Reactor Auxiliary

System

AU1 Reactor Cooling Water Control (including leak

detection system)

AU2 Compress air system

AU3 Sampling system (including Environmental sampling

and pool water sampling system)

AU4 Fire Protection System

AU5 Service Water System

AU6 Equipment and Floor Drainage

AU7 Reactor Ventilation System (including any active or

passive system)

AU8 Radioactive waste management

AU9 Reactor water Make-up/Clean-up System

EL Reactor

Electrical

System

EL1 Normal AC power Supply

EL2 Emergency AC power Supply

EL3 Normal DC power Supply

EL4 Emergency DC power Supply

EL5 Reactor Building Electrical power system

EL6 Un-interrupted power supply

EL7 Offsite power supply

EL8 Onsite Power Supply (including any Diesel Generator)

FC FC1 Fuel Handling and Storage


35


Reactor

Facilities

FC2 Exposure Room

FC3 In-core Experimental Facilities

FC4 Beam Ports

FC5 Thermal Column

FC6 Pneumatic Transfer System

FC7 Liquid Waste handling and disposal

FC8 Gaseous Waste handling and disposal

FC9 Solid Waste handling and disposal

IC Nuclear and

Radiation

Instrumentation

System

IC1 Startup Channels

IC2 Log N channel

IC3 Safety Channel

IC4 In-core/Ex-core Instrumentation

IC5 Reactor Operation Control Panel

IC6 Liquid Effluent Monitors

IC7 Gaseous Effluent Monitors

IC8 Area Radiation Monitors

TR Reactor

Responses

during Normal

Operation,

Transient and

Emergency

Situation

TR1 Power Increase, Decrease, and Power Correction (in

AUTO mode)

TR2 Power Increase and Decrease, and Power Correction

(in MANUAL mode)

TR3 Emergency Shutdown from Full Power/Designated

Power

TR4 Normal Shutdown from Full Power/Designated Power

TR5 Subcritical to Criticality (including Control Rod

Manipulation)

TR6 Control Rod Malfunction

TR7 Instrumentation Malfunction

TR8 Primary Cooling System Leak Control

TR9 Fuel Cladding Failure


36


TR10

Reactor Protection System (including any setpoints)

TR11

Emergency Plan and Procedures

RG Regulations and

Organization

RG1 General Facility Safety Rules

RG2 Organizations, Competent Authorities,

Responsibilities

RG3 Authorization, Notification and Reporting

RG4 Modification of Reactor System and Reactor

Procedures

RG5 Licensing and Enforcement

RG6 Modification of Licensing Documents (including SAR

and OLC)

RG7 Operator Responses During Incident/Accident


37

APPENDIX 3

OPERATION EXAMINATION SYLLABUS

General

A3.1 The objectives of operation examination are to:

a) determine if the candidate possesses and maintain adequate competencies

to demonstrate specific action of reactor operation, which covers the

demonstration of a start-up and shutdown procedures, and control

manipulation; and

b) evaluate Candidate’s understanding and level of knowledge on the design

and operation of the reactor and its associated facilities, both internal and

external to the reactor control room.

Required Examination Competencies for Reactor Operator

A3.2 All candidate of Reactor Operator (whether for initial certification or recertification)

are required to accomplished the following standardize normal operational sequences1

(without SCRAM):

a) Perform pre-operational procedures;

b) Initiate reactor start-up operation sequences;

c) Bring the reactor from sub-critical to a critical condition at designated power

level by Manual mode;

d) Increase power level to a designated power level requested

i. by Manual or Automatic mode; or

ii. successfully performed Square-Wave mode operation;

e) Maintained the reactor at designated power for at least 15 minutes (Note: It

is recommended that candidate is able to demonstrate the control of reactor

at 100% licensed power level);

1 The normal operational sequence of the reactor is designed based on the updated, approved operation procedure


38

f) Initiate reactor power reduction up to designated power level;

g) Perform automatic SCRAM, and removed key from reactor console; and

h) Performed post-operational procedures.

A3.3 The candidate is graded based on the following criteria:

a) Understanding and interpretation of annunciator and alarm signals:

i. Ability to correctly understand, interpret and verify any alarm and

annunciators (including, when necessary, the use of the alarm

response procedure);

ii. Ability to prioritized any alarm and annunciators, and

iii. Ability to attend to them based on the importance and severity.

b) Diagnosis of Events and Conditions based on Signal and Instrumentation

Readings:

i. Ability to recognize off-normal trend or status;

ii. Ability to correctly use reference material (prints/book/chart

recording) to aid in the diagnosis and clarification of events; and

iii. Ability to correctly diagnose reactor conditions based on control room

indications.

c) Understanding of Reactor and System Responses:

i. Ability to locate and correctly interpret relevant instruments and other

indicators of reactor/system response;

ii. Ability to demonstrate knowledge of system operation, including set-

point, interlocks and automatic actions; and

iii. Ability to demonstrate an understanding of his/her action (or in-

action) affected reactor/system condition.

d) Compliance/Use of Procedures and Operational Limits and Conditions

(OLC):

i. Ability to refer to the appropriate procedure in a timely manner;

ii. Ability to recognize emergency procedure condition and carry out

appropriate action without the aid of reference or other form of

assistance;


39

iii. Ability to comply with procedures (including precautions and

limitations) in an accurate and timely manner; and

iv. Ability to recognized reactor conditions which are address in OLC.

e) Console Operations:

i. Ability to locate controls effectively and accurately;

ii. Ability to manipulate controls in an accurate and timely manner;

iii. Ability to act appropriately in response to an instrumentation

readings; and

iv. Ability to take manual controls of automatic functions where

appropriate.

f) Communications:

i. Ability to effectively communicate information on the status of the

reactor/system.

Additional Required Examination Competencies for Senior Reactor Operator

A3.4 For SRO operation examination, in addition to standardize normal operational

sequences of the reactor, the SRO candidate may also be assessed with situation of

abnormality of the reactor, including, in the event of instrumentation failure, component

failure or major transients.

A3.5 For Senior Reactor Operator status upgrade, in addition to the criteria in A3.3, the

following shall also be evaluated:

a) Communications:

i. Ability to understand and judge the condition of the reactor/system

based on the information available from reference material and/or

reactor operator;

ii. Ability to making decision/direction for a continued safe operation;

iii. Ability to direct Reactor Operator to perform specific action based on

the decision made;


40

iv. Ability to communicate the status of his/her action (or in-action) to

Reactor Manager and Licensee’s Safety Committee.


41



42

CONTRIBUTORS FOR DRAFTING AND REVIEW

The Committee members of Jawatankuasa Kecil Keselamatan Nuklear:

En. Nik Mohd. Faiz Khairuddin - Lembaga Perlesenan Tenaga Atom

Cik Lydia Ilaiza Saleh - Lembaga Perlesenan Tenaga Atom

Prof. Madya Dr. Faizal Mohamed - Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

Dr. Mohd. Abd. Wahab Mohd. Yusof - Agensi Nuklear Malaysia

Datin Zarina Masood - Agensi Nuklear Malaysia

Pn. Noorly Akmar Ramli - Suruhanjaya Tenaga

En. Sham Shuhairi Nasarudin - Jabatan Keselamatan & Kesihatan Pekerjaan

En. Mohd. Radzi. Rohaizad - Jabatan Keselamatan & Kesihatan Pekerjaan

Pn. Sumitra Jayaseelan - Kementerian Sains, Teknologi & Inovasi

En. Keshminder Singh a/l Ajaib Singh - Kementerian Sains, Teknologi & Inovasi

AELB Staffs:

Cik Gan Pek Yen - Lembaga Perlesenan Tenaga Atom

En. Abd. Aziz Sadri - Lembaga Perlesenan Tenaga Atom

Pn. Najihah Mat Lazim - Lembaga Perlesenan Tenaga Atom

Cik Nurul Sareeza Azidin - Lembaga Perlesenan Tenaga Atom

En. Ridha Roslan - Lembaga Perlesenan Tenaga Atom